Related Experiment Videos
Science and technology integration for increased human potential and societal outcomes
1National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 505, Arlington, VA 22230, USA. mroco@nsf.gov
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|June 15, 2004
Summary
Unifying science at the nanoscale through nano-bio-info-cogno (NBIC) technologies offers a new foundation for innovation and technological integration. These converging technologies aim to enhance human performance and create revolutionary products for societal advancement.
Area of Science:
- Interdisciplinary science
- Nanotechnology
- Converging technologies
Background:
- The material unity of nature at the nanoscale provides a foundation for unifying scientific disciplines.
- Synergistic advances at the interfaces of science and engineering are emerging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a new foundation for knowledge, innovation, and technology integration.
- To outline research, education trends, and funding for converging technologies.
- To explore the potential of nano-bio-info-cogno (NBIC) transforming tools.
Main Methods:
- Systems approach
- Mathematics and computation
- Integration of NBIC fields
Main Results:
- Understanding the natural world and research as complex, hierarchical systems.
- Enabling improvement of human performance at individual and group levels.
- Development of revolutionary products and services.
Conclusions:
- Converging NBIC technologies offer a unique moment for scientific and technical achievement.
- NBIC technologies will be integrated into human architecture, impacting work, learning, aging, and social interaction.
- This work outlines trends and potential for revolutionary advancements.